Tattoo Artist / Indiana
2026 data Indiana board official source

Indiana Tattoo Artist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Performs tattooing and permanent makeup. Licensed in most states.

What the Indiana data shows for Tattoo Artists

Indiana's path to tattoo artist licensure runs through 1,500 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a criminal history screening. Indiana folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Cosmetology School".

Budget $75 to get started on a 2-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in Indiana, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

Indiana evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Indiana

Education / Training Hours
Cosmetology School
1,500 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Indiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Tattoo Artist in Indiana?
Indiana requires 1500 education/training hours, passing an exam, and an initial fee of $75. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Tattoo Artist in Indiana?
Certification as a tattoo artist in Indiana means clearing the state's checklist: 1500 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Indiana licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Tattoo Artist license to Indiana from another state?
There's no published blanket reciprocity rule for tattoo artists in Indiana - applications from other states are reviewed individually. Interstate licensing compacts cover many occupations and may still apply. Reach out to the Indiana licensing board for the current process.
Does Indiana require a background check for Tattoo Artist licensing?
Indiana does require a background check before issuing a tattoo artist license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites